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ABOUT

THE IAS TROPICAL PLANT EXPO


Launched in 1979 as the “IAS Show & Sale” at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, the Expo began as a fundraising event where aroid enthusiasts gathered to swap plants and knowledge. What started with just 17 founding members has grown into the world’s largest annual celebration of aroids and other tropical plants, drawing collectors, researchers, and hobbyists from every corner of the globe.


Today the Expo continues its original mission—funding IAS programs and spreading aroid education—while showcasing thousands of plants, vendor booths, talks, and member‑driven events that inspire both newcomers and seasoned growers alike.


GET YOUR TICKETS NOW



VOLUNTEER

AND BE PART OF THE ACTION


Every September the Expo comes to life thanks to a dedicated crew of volunteers who pitch in before, during, and after the show. Whether you scan tickets, assist with workshops, or guide visitors, your time keeps the aisles buzzing—and earns you some great perks!

    • Free parking
    • Free weekend admission 
    • Limited‑Edition Expo T‑shirt
    • Behind‑the‑scenes access to rare plants and industry pros
    • Knowing you’re fueling IAS programs that teach and protect tropical plants!
    • Partner‑sponsored freebies and discounts (not guaranteed, but often offered)


READY TO JOIN THE TEAM?

Slots fill quickly—let us know you’re interested and we’ll email the full schedule when sign‑ups open.

Thank you for helping the IAS Tropical Plant Expo bloom each year!


ESSENTIALS


DATES

September 20-21, 2025


HOURS

Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm

Sunday: 9 am - 4 pm

Speaker & Workshop Schedule


LOCATION

Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo

E. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion
10901 Coral Way (SW 24th Street)
Miami, FL 33165


ON-SITE PARKING

Available for approx. $10/day

Cash & credit cards accepted

*Paid directly to the Fair & Expo


GETTING THERE

Enter through Gate #2

(109th Ave & Coral Way)

SOCIETY SHOP

Formerly Member Sales

Whether you’re looking to share your favorite aroids or score a unique find, don’t miss the Society Shop area at the IAS Tropical Plant Expo! Only IAS members can consign plants for sale, but everyone is welcome to shop and take home something special.

In lieu of purchasing and manning a booth, at the Society Shop, our team will handle checkout, sales tax, and payment for you - allowing you to share your plants while also enjoying the Expo!

By participating, members support IAS—30% of each sale helps fund our mission of education and conservation. Expect an improved experience this year, with barcoded drop-off and smoother sales.

Want more details or ready to sign up for the Society Shop?

SIGN IN & LEARN MORE 

While you browse Member Sales, be sure to check out the nearby Silent Auction for more rare and exciting plants—open to all attendees!

AROID AWARDS

Marvel at the best of the best!


Each year, IAS members bring their most stunning aroids to compete in our celebrated Aroid Awards—ranging from “Best in Show” to “Most Unusual” and “People’s Choice.” Everyone is encouraged to visit the display and cast a vote for your favorite in the People’s Choice category!


GUESTS: Be sure to stop by, admire these showstoppers, and help us crown the People’s Choice winner!


MEMBERS: Want to enter your prized plant? Learn more and submit your entry !


SIGN IN & LEARN MORE

SILENT AUCTION


Don’t miss the chance to bid on rare plants and plant‑related treasures—open to all Expo attendees! Our Silent Auction features hand‑selected items from vendors and IAS experts, with all proceeds supporting the IAS mission of education and conservation.


How it works:

The Silent Auction runs throughout Saturday, September 20th. Simply create an account, browse the auction tables, and place your bids—either in person or online with our upgraded, user-friendly software. Set your maximum bids and let the excitement build!


Join the fun, support a great cause, and maybe take home something extraordinary!

MEMBER DINNER & AUCTION

Where Rare Aroids, Good Company, and Fundraising Take Root


Since the very first IAS auction in 1978—held before the Expo even existed—this evening has been the Society’s most anticipated social (and fundraising) event. What began as a simple plant auction has grown into a full dinner, expert speaker or panel, and paddle auction that unites members over great food, lively conversation, and truly exceptional aroids. Proceeds power IAS research, conservation, and education programs all year long.


IAS membership is required to attend. Join today to secure your seat!


BUY DINNER TICKET      |     JOIN IAS


WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT!

Unrivaled Plants – expertly chosen, rare aroids donated by our generous sponsors, vendors, partners, and members.

Inside Knowledge – a speaker panel of leading researchers and growers (lineup announced soon)

Community Vibes – mingle with fellow enthusiasts in a relaxed, membersonly setting

Mission impact – every paddle raise helps fund IAS conservation and education initiatives

Member Appreciation – a members-only dinner as a special thank you, celebrating IAS members’ support and dedication


The Dinner & Auction is where lifelong plant friendships—and epic collection stories—begin.

DINNER & AUCTION 

DETAILS AT A GLANCE


DATE & TIME

Saturday, September 20

7 PM – 11 PM


VENUE

Graham Center Ballrooms

Florida International University

11200 SW 8th St | Miami, FL 33174


PARKING

Available for approx. $5 - $10

Metered, on FIU Campus


EVENING HIGHLIGHTS

Tropical Menu, featuring edible aroids

Expert Speaker / Panel  |  Q&A  |  Live Paddle Auction

The first 100 guests to purchase will also receive a special gift!


New for 2025: Faster mobile checkout and instant tax-compliant receipts, thanks to our improved auction software. All major credit cards are accepted.


*Please note, we cannot accept cash, checks, PayPal, Venmo, or CashApp, etc.

VENDOR & SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Showcase your plant-related business at the IAS Tropical Plant Expo and connect with growers, collectors, and industry professionals. Open to live-plant sellers, horticultural vendors, and plant-art exhibitors.


APPLY TO EXHIBIT OR SPONSOR THE EXPO!

MEET OUR VENDORS & SPONSORS

Discover the passionate businesses, artists, growers, and organizations that help make the IAS Tropical Plant Expo possible!


JOIN US TO:

  • Shop one-of-a-kind plants, art, and horticultural products
  • Connect with expert growers and plant professionals
  • Support businesses who share our mission of plant education, conservation, and community


FAQs

Do I need to join the IAS to attend the Expo or Annual Member Dinner & Auction? toggle icon

No membership is required to attend the Expo—everyone is welcome! There are many benefits to being a member of the International Aroid Society, however, and we encourage everyone to consider joining. Members receive a $5 discount on Expo tickets!

IAS membership is required for all attendees (including guests) at the Member Dinner & Auction fundraising event.

How do I get tickets? toggle icon

We recommend advanced purchase online for the easiest and quickest entry. After purchasing tickets online, you’ll receive an email with a QR code—this is your ticket for entry. You can also find it under “My event registrations” in your aroid.org profile.

Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door.

Is re-entry allowed? toggle icon

Yes, you’re free to come and go throughout the day.

I bought tickets but can no longer attend. Can I get a refund? toggle icon

All ticket sales are final and non-refundable. However, you’re welcome to give or transfer your ticket to someone else if you can’t attend so they enjoy the Expo.

Are children able to attend? toggle icon

Yes! We welcome guests of all ages to enjoy the Expo! Children under 12 receive free admission to the Expo.

Will the Expo only feature aroids? toggle icon

Aroids (Araceae family) are the focus of our talks, awards, and auction—but the Expo celebrates all plants! Vendors will showcase a variety of species and plant families.

How does parking work? Can I take a cab or rideshare instead of paying to park? toggle icon

If you drive, parking is $10 per vehicle (managed by the Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo) at the booth upon arrival using cash or card.

There will be a designated drop-off and pick-up area for rideshares and taxis. The entrance for rideshare drop-off and pickup is at 109th Ave & Coral Way—just follow the signs.

Is there Wi-Fi available? toggle icon

Yes, Wi-Fi will be provided by the Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo.

Is there a place to store personal belongings? toggle icon

There is no on-site storage. Please keep your belongings with you at all times and do not leave items unattended.

Is there an ATM on-site? toggle icon

Yes, the Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo has an ATM on site.

What should I bring (or not bring)? toggle icon

Recommended:

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Portable phone charger
  • Secure wallet or small bag
  • Tote or bag for plant purchases (IAS totes available at the Society Shop!)
  • Carts are allowed, but please don’t block aisles or leave them unattended
  • A friend to join you and make memories!

Please DO NOT bring:

  • Outside food or drinks (concessions available on site)
  • Plants for sale or trade (only approved vendors and Society Shop sales are permitted)
  • Weapons of any kind
  • Emotional support animals or pets. (Only service animals, as defined by the ADA, are permitted.)
What accessibility accommodations are available? toggle icon

The venue is fully ADA-compliant with wheelchair ramps and other accommodations. If you have unique circumstances or have questions, please contact us in advance at events@aroid.org.

How do I bring plants home, and can I get a phytosanitary certificate? toggle icon

The Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Division of Plant Industry (FDACS DPI) will be on site to provide phytosanitary certificates. Not all plants are eligible for phytosanitary certificates, so please visit the FDACS DPI booth directly and contact your Department of Agriculture to determine import eligibility.

Visit the FDACS DPI booth early to avoid long lines and delays at the end of each day. The FDACS DPI will determine day-of scheduling for receiving phytosanitary certificates.

Please note that interstate travel with plants is specific to the laws and rules of your final destination. You can request certificates of specific pest control, interstate compliance agreements, etc. from vendors to make travelling back with plants to your home states less risky. Import requirements for most states can be found here, and may vary based on mode of travel.

TIP: Local shipping or office supply stores (FedEx, UPS, Staples, etc.) have supplies and often space to package items!

For U.S. travelers:

  • Pack plants in your checked bag or carry-on, depending on airline rules.
  • Shipping via USPS, UPS, or FedEx is another option.
  • Ask vendors for documentation needed for your state—typically, a compliance certificate naming your state of destination along with a receipt from the nursery will suffice, but please verify prior to attempting to travel with plants.

For international travelers:

  • Use the FDACS DPI while at the Expo for qualifying plants or contact the local USDA Plant Inspection Station to apply for a phytosanitary certificate.
  • Plants will be inspected for any pests, disease, etc.
  • Import requirements vary by country—check your destination’s rules in advance.
  • Ship plants or bring them in your luggage, depending on your country’s policies.
Will recordings of the Expo be available afterward? toggle icon

Yes! We’ll be capturing as much content as possible through photos and video, available to IAS members after the event.

What else is there to do in the area? toggle icon

There’s so much to explore! Miami is famous for its beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and cultural destinations.

  • Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
  • Miami Beach Botanical Garden
  • Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
  • Local nurseries and growers throughout the area
I'll be traveling to the Expo from another country. Do you offer anything to help with the visa process? toggle icon

We wouldn't be the International Aroid Society without you! Please email us at events@aroid.org for more information and assistance.

I have a dietary restriction for the Member Dinner & Auction–can that be accommodated? toggle icon

Yes! We have vegan and non-dairy options. For specific dietary questions or needs, please email us at events@aroid.org.

How do I submit a question for the speakers at the Member Dinner & Auction? toggle icon

About a month before the event, we’ll send a form to all ticketed dinner guests where you can submit your questions—either directed to specific speakers or general ones for the group. A reminder will also go out before the event.

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